Durability. Without moving the tripod or laser, we then changed the laser mode to crosshairaka, a vertical and horizontal line simultaneously. 3.3. A laser level is 100 percent worth purchasing if you do any kind of DIY projects around the house like trim work or even something simple like a gallery wall, explains Nasir. The lasers used in your level are either Class 2 or Class 3, which arent strong enough to cause serious damage to your eyes. We evaluated how easy the line was to see, and whether or not it matched the premarked line. Its the fact that the GLL3-330CG can do it on three different planes at one time that makes it so special. Laser Level Showdown! Review of 10 Models - YouTube It can also last for 12 hours continuously and has batteries included. We also love its low price compared to many other similar options. The Bosch GLL 30 Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser projects two lines, making a cross-line projection, for a wide array of level and align uses. With only one operating modemaking it super easy to usethe level continuously emits a horizontal and plumb line that self-levels with a lockable pendulum. We recommend the cross-line Bosch Self-Leveling Laser Level, which our testers found to be the best combination of reliability, value, and quality on the market. at 30 Ft. Conveniently, it also runs on AAA batteries, which are included with your purchase. If the majority of your DIY-type projects involve hanging a picture or two a few times a year, the GLL3-330CG is likely overkill. Therefore, a green laser beam of a given intensity will appear brighter to the eye than a red laser beam of the same intensity.. Battery: 3.7. This not only provides a level line of reference on every surface but also plumb locations where the beams meet on the floor and ceiling. Bosch 300 ft. Self-Leveling Green 360-Degree Laser Level - Self-leveling Laser levels are one of the best tools invented for installing cabinets, windows, wall tile, doors and dozens of other uses. Product Details: Beam Color: Red | Beam Orientations: Cross-line | Range: 30 feet | Self-Leveling: Yes | Weight: Not provided. While the GLL3-330CG didnt come with a tripod, it can attach to one using the same threaded hole in the bottom that attaches to the base. Be especially mindful of using these tools around children or pets. Who it isnt for: People who want use of the level outdoors. Theres also the crisp and very visible green lines produced by the level, which are easy to see in a brighter light than red lines, and broadcast a long wayup to 100 feet. Decorative painters might use a laser level to lay out an even design. That said, it comes with features, accessories, and capabilities that push it toward the professional level, says our tester. It also includes automatic leveling and had a magnetic plate as well as a laser target plate to increase the beams reach. Thats a big ask, so I performed hands-on testing with the GLL3-330CG to help determine whether its worth the investment. Many also said that it stayed in place while they worked. Our tester found that this laser was tricky to use at first. If nothing broke, we dropped it again. However, if a majority of your work needs to be done inside, a red laser level will be sufficient. Who its for: People who just need a simple, reliable level with two modes. Product Details: Beam Color: Green | Beam Orientations: One 360 degrees horizontal line and two 360 degrees vertical lines | Range: 100 feet | Self-Leveling: Yes | Weight: 0.75 pounds. Most of the affordable options use AA batteries or AAA batteries. Best Bosch Laser Level Reviews 2020 . However, the tripod it comes with is not professional-grade, leading to decreased accuracy and needed adjustments. First, consider the tasks you'll be working on using the laser level. In fact, no other model had more than one. This versatile level can project up to 165 feet and has a highly magnetic bracket. He consulted Professor Bruce Garetz, associate chair of the NYU Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department, who provided insight into the light spectrum and how the human eye picks up lasers of different colors. Theres even an included remote control with rechargeable batteries to make handling the level as simple as possible, as well as a portable bag, mini tripod, magnetic base, and more. During testing, when we dropped this laser level multiple times to check its durability, the device suffered no scratches after falling and remained just as accurate as before. The laser level projects vertical and 360 lines, making it ideal for general leveling and alignment, electrical work, carpentry, and HVAC. Who it isnt for: People who mainly do smaller, less-intensive DIY projects. It finished second in both the lights-on and lights-off test, only behind the DEWALT laser level. GLL3-300 | 360 Three-Plane Leveling and Alignment-Line Laser | Bosch Product Details: Beam Color: Red | Beam Orientations: Cross-line | Range: 30 feet | Self-Leveling: Yes | Weight: 0.6 pounds. They also found the lock feature to be useful and said it was highly durable. Bosch GLL3-330GC Laser Level Review: Is it Worth It? Tested by Bob Vila Still, it wasnt as accurate as other models we tried out, with some deviation, according to our testers. Best Laser Level with Clamp Bosch GLL25-10 Self-Leveling Laser Level. Laser levels help you level multiple pieces on your wall at once. This makes us more confident in its ability to last over time. However, many of the best laser levels come with some type of mounting devices, such as a magnetized L-mount that can magnetically connect to studs, ladders, or other types of metal. A straightforward addition to any tool chest, this red cross-line laser is a great pick when youre looking for a small laser with wide applications. This high-visibility green-diode laser does a great job in enclosed areas and open spaces alike, so youll be able to see the beams no matter where youre working. Additionally, this tool can even be self-leveling when placed on an inclined surface, saving you valuable time and effort. 5 /5. Simply sliding the switch from the off position to the unlocked position releases the pendulum, allowing it to swing freely until it finds the ideal degree of level (which is accurate to within 3/32 of an inch at 30 feet). High visibility for beam indoors Strong magnetic charge Comes with a hard case and attached magnetic mount, Was hard to see outdoors in the sunlight Has a high price point. We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. An interior designer might use a level to set up framed paintings along the same level as the top of a door. While it took a moderate amount of time to set up an accurate line, they said that with more practice, the Hychika would be extremely accurate and helpful to use. The base has two extendable feet for stability while also providing several inches of height adjustment. Our top pick is the Tavool Self-Leveling Laser Level, due to its ease of use, proven durability, and 50-feet length of visibility, just to name a few of its great features. Our tester found that the auto-level had no deviation and created a perfect horizontal line in just under 30 secondsone of the quickest self-leveling jobs of any laser we examined. When we dropped the laser from tripod height twice, testers found no visible damage to the exterior and that the laser self-leveled just as before. 3.6. While not every situation calls for a 360 degrees horizontal line, many of the best laser levels are capable of this projection, but can also be turned off for simpler tasks. The first number indicates how well the casing withstands solids, and the second indicates how well it withstands liquids. Laser Level Showdown! It includes a highly visible three-beam crossing line and had a more visible line than some other models. If the laser level falls or the user stores it in inclement conditions (below 14 degrees Fahrenheit or above 104 degrees), the GLL3-330CG will trigger a calibration alert. Also, there is a small battery tray hidden inside the battery compartment, and its preloaded with a CR2032 battery (which it uses to monitor the devices calibration if the main battery dies). You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Laser Level Reviews Looking for the best laser level? Unsatisfied customers struggled to see the beam outside when it was sunny, while others felt the lock switch was difficult to adjust. When it comes to user-friendliness, the GLL3-330CG is better than any other laser level Ive tested. Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox. Dissatisfied customers, however, said they were disappointed the line only projected forwards, while others had issues with the case breaking. 5. If staying under a tight budget is a concern, make sure to check out this inexpensive level from Tacklife. This efficient laser level performed well in several of our tests, especially for a medium-priced option. Its rotating wall attachment was also a standout feature. We then put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you find the best product for your home, and you can find more information about shopping for tools in our tools buying guide. The Bosch GLL3-300 360 Three-Plane Leveling and Alignment-Line Laser features an all-in-one level and alignment solution. Its extra-bright lights and all-around coverage make it able to be effectively used outside in the sun, as our testing found. So are the extra features and increased accuracy worth it? Unlike cross-line beams that throw a horizontal and plumb line onto the wall, the CIGMAN emits beams 360 degrees on three planes to give you accurate alignment in all directions. Easily switch between vertical, horizontal, angled and cross level lines. Bosch GLL40-20G 40ft Green-Beam Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser with Like other red lasers, this will perform best inside. This laser level comes with a mini tripod but also affixes onto traditional tripods and comes with a powerful magnetic connector that mounts on walls, columns, and more. Users can then connect their phone to the laser level using the Bosch Leveling Remote app to determine what happened, check the level, and then clear the alert. 3.2. However, if youre doing more precise work, such as laying tile on your floors, youll want a laser level thats accurate to around one-eighth of an inch at 30 feet. At the very end of the test, we gave testers the price of each laser level so they could evaluate the overall value of each. During testing, our experts found the level had zero deviation on the vertical axis at 40 feet out, making it a reliable and accurate choice. If you dont want to have to buy any accessories like a tripod or carrying case separately, we recommend opting for a laser level kit such as this great option from Johnson. Some higher-end models, though, will have an extra vertical laser listed, allowing you to cover the area of a larger space. For a relatively small job, a tripod isnt necessary, although it can be very helpful to adjust the height of the laser, says Nasir. Home builders could use a laser level to grade a surface before laying concrete or to line up cinder blocks for a foundation. Are you the kind of person whos always making tiny improvements to your home? Other perks of this level include its easy and quick set up, reliable self-leveling mode, and two brightness modes, a unique feature compared to other options, says our tester. The Bosch GLL3-330CG is a laser level with features and abilities to spare, and it can be difficult to decide where to start. 100 ft. Self-Leveling 3-Dot Laser Level - Harbor Freight Tools It projects horizontally and then vertically in two directions. This laser level was one of the top models during our test. While this laser level is intuitive for beginners to use, it lacks the high-tech features that someone with more experience may be looking for. Bosch - , , The best type of laser for a builder. Second, on the topic of accuracy, 3/32 of an inch might not sound like a great improvement over of an inch, but theres more to consider here. According to one tester, the level offers crisp, crean lines that are easy to see, and that broadcast a very long wayI could use this across my yard.. With top-notch accuracy and one-switch operation, the user's leveling and alignment tasks are done quickly and . It took our tester just under a minute to level a horizontal line, so it's quick to set up, too. Inside the hard cover kit, youll find an elevating tripod that can be quickly attached to the laser, tinted glasses to help you see the laser lights more clearly, and, of course, the level itself. When shopping for these tools, make sure to take a look at the degree of accuracy typically listed on the packaging; the best options should have a very minimal deviation (or none), ideally under -inch. Our testers noted that the pendulum wobbles a bit with adjustments, so youll need to have patience as you reposition it, but we found during testing that its measurements were quite accurate. Compared to similarly priced green lasers, this simple cross-line has a very limited feature set and reduced visibility. Its rechargeable battery is a nice feature, and while our tester found the remote control to be an unnecessary feature, some might like it for completing their projects. For laser levels, we examined the following factors: Overall our top choice is the DEWALT Line Laser, which had a highly visible line that extends further than any other laser levels we tested and came with a hard case and magnetic mount. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service. Gabriel also spoke with Jesse Newell of Montcalm Construction, who offered insights on how he uses laser levels in tiling and contractor work. BAUER 50 ft. Self-Leveling 360 Horizontal Cross Line Laser Level Beam Orientation: Horizontal, vertical | Color: Red | Self-Leveling: Yes. The user can be as creative as necessary with this laser level. 22 Best Green Laser Levels For Real Builders! In 2023 - Banging Toolbox It also is quite durable, surviving a drop test without any issue, and its designed to be waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof. Affiliate Disclosure:This Old Houses Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services. Learn more. During testing, we evaluated each item for the following: This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. By submitting your email, you agree to our, 5 Best Laser Levels of 2023 (Tested and Ranked), New Home Products to Help You Tackle Your To-do List, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Clarity of instructions from the manufacturer, Areas for improvement and potential deal-breakers. Unhappy customers were disappointed that the level was too heavy for the magnetic base and that it didnt self-level. It can help you see a laser better outdoors as well as extend its range. Some other laser levels come with clamps that can affix to bookshelves, desks, and other furniture, so you dont necessarily have to have a tripod on hand to use your device. BOSCH GLL30 30ft Cross-Line Laser Level Self-Leveling with 360 Degree Most laser levels project a horizontal line, which is beamed out across your workspace to establish a uniform height, but some also project a vertical line to help you vertically position things, too. First, it features flexible battery sources. Its bright green lasers are quite bright, making the line easily visible whether you use it indoors or outside. Tom Scalisi, 11 Ways to Make the Most of Your Towns Curbside Cleanup Day. Third, we again adjusted the tripod so that the laser was aligned with the premarked line on the wall. Many of the best laser levels weigh around one pound, but more heavy-duty models may weigh more. Ni-Mh rather than lithium. When dropped from ladder height onto concrete multiple times, this laser level suffered no damage and remained just as accurate as before. Learn more. Not only is this laser level sturdily built and capable of withstanding tough falls, but its green beam is also highly visible and reaches up to 180 feet. As for negatives, the testers found that the line wobbles wildly during self-leveling, making positioning a bit of a chore, but found a workaround by positioning the locked levels using the crosshairs aimed at the point you need. Save 40% by shopping . The option of both rechargeable lithium-ion batteries or AA batteries. While the Black+Decker Line Laser, Auto-leveling with Stud Finder will appeal to anyone who wants both a laser level and stud finder in one, its not quite accurate enough to justify its price, according to our testers. Also, the laser it produces is a series of dashes, rather than a solid line, which might not be preferable to many users. The time spent using an inaccurate laser level (caused by a drop or similar scenario) can add up to thousands of dollars in waste. Its highly dependable for a budget price. Other reviewers noted that it lasted a long time and worked well for various household and professional projects. Who its for: People who want a super bright level that offers all-around coverage. But a human checking a laser levels accuracy with a bubble level is laughable. 2. Skil Self-Leveling Green Cross Line Laser Level: This laser level has a quick self-leveling feature, durable build, and an especially long reach (up to 65 feet). But if youre willing to shell out some cash, youll be glad you invested in this level, which is very well built and provides excellent performance. If youre looking for a red cross-line laser, we recommend the Bosch GLL25-1Self Leveling Laser Level because its highly accurate, easily self-levels, and comes with a clamp that affixes to lots of surfaces around the home. We tested 25 laser levels in our Des Moines, Iowa, lab to determine which ones are the best for most home and outdoor projects. This DEWALT laser level was our top testing choice. We measured a slight 1/16-inch deviation from the pencil line on the right axis, which was close enough to perfect to impress our tester, who recommends it as a great buy for precision jobs. To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com. With its precise self-leveling beam, the Bosch Self Leveling Laser Level is the best choice for most DIYers toolboxes. 5 Best Laser Levels, Reviews, and Leveling Techniques - This Old House It emits bright red lines that are very thin and crisp, but remain easy to see, says our tester. Most cross-line systems project at 120 degrees, 140 degrees, or 180 degrees to help you align things accurately. These days, self-leveling is a common feature, and many self-leveling lasers cost less than $30. Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are used to explain how well a casing or enclosure withstands damage from solids and liquids. However, we found during testing that it uses up a lot of battery power. Lutz TJ, Sammarco JJ, Srednicki JR, Gallagher S. Comparison of cap lamp and laser illumination for detecting visual escape cues in smoke. First, adjusting only the tripod and not the laser itself, we timed how quickly the laser aligned with a premarked level line on the wall, taking note of how easy it was to see the laser line. However, some lasers project 360 degrees, which allows you to project a beam of light in multiple directions without having to turn the housing. Where the GLL3-330CG stood out, however, was in the sheer number of 360-degree planes. Any time I review a premium product, I dread answering the question of whether its worth the investment. Many of the best laser levels for home and professional use operate with class two lasers. Offers maximum versatility ideal for general leveling and alignment, flooring, and tiling. With a small cross-line laser, auto leveling, and manual mode, this is a simple solution that will fit in any tool chest. It makes it so much easier to have a visual line as a guide rather than holding up a traditional level. McCoy adds that laser levels help you to produce perfect angles and flat planes, no matter the job.. GLL 30 | Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser | Bosch Power Tools These helpful tools make it easier to get the perfect measurement for your work every single time, whether youre hanging pictures on a wall, completing a construction project, or doing any task where you need precise alignment. Designed with useful features and built to last, the Huepar Self-Leveling Green Laser Level is the best laser level for rigorous job sites and frequent use. This level was also the most visible level in our outdoor test. The level sports a 360 degrees horizontal line paired with a 140 degrees vertical cross-line and two red plumb dots. Dewalt is known for making tough and durable tools, and the Dewalt Line Laser is one of the best laser levels where toughness is concerned. We use this tool dozens of times in each job to build level foundations, framing, decks, . If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shop this Collection (93) $ 269 00 $ 299.97. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn't an option. Since it requires four AA batteries to operate, youll find yourself swapping in new batteries far more frequently than other models on this list. It comes with a protective case, a tripod, and red glasses that enhance the laser line. Any kind of job within scope, even in a large outdoor space, is achievable thanks to the 'Smart Targeting' function. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company. Has a 50-foot, highly-visible laser Has a strong magnetic mount Features a three-beam crossing line, Does not have automatic leveling Could not be seen during our outdoor testing. Best Rated Bosch Laser Level Comparison Chart. If the Bosch GLL3-330CG thinks theres even a chance of this happening, it will let you know. Our top pick is the Tavool Self Leveling Laser Level for its accuracy, durability, and low price. We tested 25 popular laser levels in our Lab, evaluating them on ease of use, value, accuracy, and more to find the best models for every home renovation project. Beam Features: 4.55/5 | Feature Set: 4/5 | Price Point: 1.67/5. Consider the size and setting of the project in question to determine whether a tripod might make sense to purchase (some, like the Johnson Level & Tool Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Kit, come with a tripod). This cross line laser level projects 2 bright crossing level lines so you can make sure objects you're hanging are perfectly straight, leveled, and lined up horizontally and vertically. #1 Best joiners green laser level Leica Lino L2p5 Green cross-line laser with 5 points and cross-line. Bosch. Once set down, the pendulum balances and achieves a level line.
